Falls from Heights at Industrial Sites

Common Locations and Causes of Falls at Industrial Sites

• Scaffolding failure or improper erection
• Missing or inadequate guardrails on elevated platforms
• Falls from mezzanine floors and storage structures
• Loading dock and bay accidents
• Ladder and stairway failures
• Roof access and tank top falls
• Unprotected floor openings
• Falls into pits, sumps, or excavations

Who May Be Legally Responsible for a Fall

Falls at industrial sites often involve more than one responsible party. The site owner may have duties to maintain safe conditions. The general contractor may have responsibility for fall protection on the site. A scaffolding company may be responsible for the condition of scaffolding it erected or inspected.

Equipment manufacturers may face liability where defective ladders, platforms, or personal fall arrest systems contributed to the accident.

Injuries Caused by Falls from Height

• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Multiple fractures
• Crush injuries
• Internal organ injuries
• Death

OSHA Fall Protection Requirements

OSHA requires fall protection for employees working at heights of four feet in general industry settings. OSHA standards also set out requirements for guardrails, personal fall arrest systems, safety nets, and covers for floor openings. Violation of these standards by an employer, contractor, or site owner can be relevant to a legal claim.

Falls at Work — Industry Data

Falls, slips, and trips are consistently among the leading causes of both fatal and nonfatal workplace injuries in the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that falls, slips, and trips accounted for approximately 16 percent of all fatal work injuries in 2022 — representing over 850 fatalities. Falls from ladders, scaffolding, roofs, and elevated platforms are among the most common. OSHA lists fall protection as the most frequently cited safety violation in its enforcement actions year after year. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary, 2022; OSHA Top 10 Most Cited Violations, FY2023.

How an Attorney Can Help

Fall accident cases require prompt investigation of the site conditions, equipment, and safety procedures in place at the time of the accident. Evidence including inspection records, OSHA reports, and photographs can deteriorate quickly. See our guide on preserving evidence after an industrial accident. Where a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or site owner bears responsibility, a third-party claim may be available alongside workers' compensation.